So far, I’ve only invested in stocks and the idea of investing in real estate seems somewhat risky to me. 

Hi, you seem like a potentially good candidate for DSCR Loans, a loan product that was essentially designed for exactly this - investors that want to build a portfolio relatively quickly and not be slowed down by DTI requirements or other hassles from conventional options.Would be glad to help, also check out this 12-part series published here on BP on everything you would ever want to know on this loan option!

Based on the info you provided, it seems like a no brainer to make it a rental.

@Kash Tacke I'm a big fan of ADU's in general especially here in the mid west, yes you could potentially be on the front of the wave, but housing density is the solution to the affordability issue, anytime you are investing with affordability in mind is a great strategy to me, and sound like there are some incentives or at least supporting winds form the local city, that in itself seems like it would be worth at least approaching an architect or contractor to bid up some plans or concepts to take tot he city.  

that doesn't seem ideal - i think people should build up a track record before borrowing private money and putting it at risk.  

@Stuart UdisAll great comments, seems like putting skin in the game will be a reassuring factor for any potential investors.

We pay $850 for a WH install, so, that seems high but you are in CA.

FCI is big (160 employees) and their portal may seem like overkill, but they have their systems down and they are responsive.

Those that use it seem to like it and - as a CPA - I like the reports it produces. 

Seems like there for a while I was getting a pitch a week or so.